Little Wild Horse Canyon Loop(edit)

Overview

This is an easy to moderate loop trail in Crack Canyon Wilderness Study Area. The trail goes 1/2 mile to a split. Going right, the trail goes up some of the easiest and best slot canyons it's been my experience to hike. The climbs are small, from 2 to 5 feet through slots both big and small and lots of amazing geology. After 3.5 miles, the canyon opens out, and reaches a sign on the left directing you to the Bell Canyon Trail. The trail, at this point a large clear track that you'll share with bikes, motorcycles, and ATVs, continues to gently climb to the high point with splendid views of the San Rafael Swell geologic formations. The high point is marked by a cairn located about 30 yards to the right and is worth the side trip. The trail then descends to the point where the vehicle road exits to the the right as a map stand. The hiking trall then drops down into Bell Canyon traversing back 2-1/2 miles through more interesting slot canyons before reaching the junction and your happy return to the parking lot at the end of a memorable and beautiful hike.

It's the desert, so please take care to hike early in the day and bring more water than you would tend to bring. We did it in moderate temperatures, and still need 2 liters per person, drinking every drop in the desert heat.

Getting Started

From the I70, exit on the Hwy 24 exit traveling south and following signs to "State Park" and "Goblin Valley State Park." If you use a navigation app, make sure to get it started before leaving the I70, this beautiful area is one of the most glorious cell-free zones in the southwest. Pass the last turn into the park, and continue down the paved road another 7 miles to the parking lot at the trail head on the right. There are several confusing trails near the the map kiosk, but the trail just travels north up the wash past the Cottonwood trees until entering the canyon. I can tell this will be a favorite stop whenever I'm on the 70 freeway.

Taking Children

Many do this hike as an in and out hike to Wild Horse Canyon. The distances are shorter, and it would be a fantastic (10/10) introduction to young hikers to this kind of geologic formation with an very appropriate level of effort. Turn back whenever it suits you.